Growth Stages of Pediatric Dental Care

November 30, 2022

Pediatric dental care involves providing dentistry services for children from infants, teenagers, and young adults. However, kids require different dentistry services and dental care as they age.

Are you wondering about the type of dentistry services your child needs as they grow? This post outlines everything you need to know about the various stages of pediatric dental care.

0-1 Years Old

Your child’s oral health is among the essential things to consider early in your child’s life. Before the child’s first tooth erupts, you should clean their mouth by wiping the gums with a damp cloth. There is no need to brush until your child develops their first tooth.

You will notice that the first tooth will erupt between 6-12 months. When your child develops the first tooth, you should book an appointment with a dentist. Your dentist can advise whether you should start brushing it.

During the first appointment, the dentist will evaluate the tooth and check for signs of neonatal teeth, iron stains, tongue-tie, and cysts. Your baby’s tooth will receive a fluoride treatment to prevent cavity formation.

Your child will have all their baby teeth during this period. It would be best if you continued brushing with a small-sized toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Consider feeding your child a healthy diet, ensure you brush their teeth at least twice per day, and keep taking them to the dentist for an oral exam and teeth cleaning.

3-6 Years Old

Your child will require assistance flossing and brushing their teeth until they are six years old. During this period, your child may not have the dexterity to brush on their own. Once your child starts brushing, you need to monitor them to ensure they are doing an excellent job. Ensure you schedule an appointment with the dentist once after six months and maintain proper oral hygiene and a healthy smile.

6-13 Years Old

During this period, your child will begin losing their first set of teeth, and their permanent teeth will start to erupt. Getting an orthodontic assessment to ensure your kid’s mouth develops appropriately is an excellent idea.

You may also need to purchase a mouthguard if your child engages in sports. This will help protect teeth if the child is hit in the face or mouth while playing.

13-18 Years Old

During this period, your child’s first adult teeth will erupt. Teens are more likely to practice poor oral hygiene or enjoy sugar-rich foods. Monitor these unhealthy habits, and schedule regular appointments with the dentist.

Graduating From Pediatric Care

Your son or daughter can start seeing a general dentist once they are 18. They should continue eating healthy, visiting the dentist often, and maintaining proper oral hygiene. They will be ready for years of healthy smiles if they maintain excellent oral habits.

Come to Pinky Promise Pediatric Dentistry

At Pinky Promise Pediatric Dentistry, we offer quality oral care to infants, toddlers, older children, and teenagers. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you maintain your child’s oral health as they grow. Dr. Neelon Patel is ready to connect with you.

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